Police arrest man with gun in Cascade

ELYRIA — Police are investigating why a 27-year-old Elyria man drove into Cascade Park in possession of a firearm and contemplated suicide.

At 4:56 p.m., Elyria police responded to the park in reference to a possible intoxicated man, later identified as Michael W. Gute.

Officers found Gute’s Toyota but remained at a safe distance from the vehicle because Gute possibly had a firearm.

Attempts were made to contact the Gute using a patrol vehicle’s PA system; however, he refused to exit the vehicle, police said.

According to police, Gute was in the front seat and leaning over as if he was passing out. Moments later, police said Gute appeared to be awake and was attempting to start the vehicle and drive away.

Officers approached the vehicle with the use of ballistic shields, then used a halogen tool to shatter the front driver’s side window and unlock the driver’s door.

As officers removed Gute from the vehicle, police said he appeared to be highly intoxicated and was slurring his words.

Police said they recovered a .44 “Bulldog” charter arms revolver on the front passenger seat. Prior to transporting the gun back to the Police Department, five .44 special rounds were ejected. Three rounds that were spent and two were live, police said.

Gute was transported to EMH Elyria Medical Center for evaluation.

Gute was charged with having weapons while under disability, improperly handling firearms in a motor vehicle, using weapons while intoxicated, physical control of vehicle under the influence and for a warrant out of Lorain County Sheriff’s Office.